Pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy degree

Research Areas: Economic and urban geography, political economy and ecology

Supervisory Committee: Trevor Barnes, Jamie Peck, and Elvin Wyly

Degrees: BA (First Class, Honours) in Geography and Political Science, University of British Columbia; MPhil in Geographical Research, University of Cambridge

Awards: Outstanding TA Award

Research Statement: 

My research is concerned with the changing form and function of urban governance. I am interested in the ways cities and regions are shaped in relation and response to state policies, market processes, and prescient crises. I explore how cities compete for economic growth differently over space and time.

At the University of Cambridge, I worked with Dr. Mia Gray to examine the variegated configuration of cities under the sign of economic reforms, social movements, and climate change. Recently, my research has sought to examine the ways in which regions and firms are shaped by shifts in industrial policy. Here I look at the development of new industrial districts and supply chains for commodities that we use and rely on every day. I also have a long-standing interest in bridging political economy and political ecology together through an analysis of green municipal bonds.

Originally from Vancouver, I received my BA (First Class, Honours) in Geography and Political Science from the University of British Columbia and an MPhil in Geographical Research from the University of Cambridge.

I am passionate about teaching and deeply involved in shaping the undergraduate experience on campus. I have had the honour of learning with and from our students and colleagues on several undergraduate teaching committees and panel discussions at both institutions.

Please feel free to reach out if you are a prospective student considering the Department of Geography at UBC, or if you would like to collaborate on future projects! – Nico